Tokyo & Japan: A Student's Guide to Restful City Escapes

Japan

🗣️ Language

Japanese

📄 Visa

Tourist Visa

💰 Currency

Japanese Yen

The Japanese Yen (JPY) is the official currency. Exchange rates generally hover around 140-160 JPY to 1 USD, though these figures naturally fluctuate with global markets.

Introduction

Tokyo, a vibrant heart of Japan, offers a captivating blend where ancient traditions gracefully meet cutting-edge modernity. Its bustling commercial districts pulse with energy, yet serene temples and tranquil gardens provide peaceful escapes, allowing visitors to experience both the exhilarating pace of urban life and moments of quiet reflection.

Climate

Japan experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique travel experiences. Spring brings mild temperatures and cherry blossoms, while summer is hot and humid, with potential typhoons. Autumn features comfortable weather and vibrant foliage, and winter is cold, with snow in northern and mountainous regions.

Attractions

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji, Japan’s majestic highest peak, stands as an iconic national symbol, captivating visitors with its perfect conical form. During summer, hiking trails invite adventurers to its slopes, while its presence inspires awe and offers breathtaking scenic views from numerous vantage points, embodying profound cultural significance.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park offers a profound space for reflection and remembrance, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. Within its serene grounds, a moving museum, poignant monuments, and peaceful gardens guide visitors through a powerful narrative of peace, ensuring the lessons of history are never forgotten.

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple in Nara, a magnificent Buddhist complex, enthralls with its immense wooden structure, one of the largest in the world. Inside, the colossal bronze Buddha statue inspires wonder, while the temple’s profound historical significance and impressive architectural grandeur offer a deep dive into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Activities & Attractions

Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket

– **Important: The opening hours vary daily, check the [official website](https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdr/calendar.html) for up-to-date opening hours beforehand** – **Important: Please read the detail ([English](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/English_To_guests_who_have_purchased_or_plan_to_purchase_a_Park_ticket_aic6zh.pdf)) for the measures to insure a safe and enjoyable time and the park and requests when visiting.** – **[Tokyo Disney Resort official App] The Tokyo Disney Resort App will enable you to make advanced bookings for restaurants, and other experiences, as well as check wait time and your current location to help you enjoy the Parks even more. Downloading the App ([English](https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/tdr/app.html)) in advance is recommended. [ios](https://apps.apple.com/app/id1313147771) / [android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.tokyodisneyresort.portalapp&hl=en)** – Spend 1 day at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea with pre-booked e-tickets to ensure convenient entry – Enjoy utmost convenience with no printing required – just scan the QR code and enjoy! – To experience the eligible attractions at Fantasy Springs, a Standby Pass (available free of charge) or Disney Premier Access (available for a fee) will be required. – Disney Premier Access and Standby Pass are available in limited numbers. – To experience the eligible attractions at Fantasy Springs, a Standby Pass (available free of charge) or Disney Premier Access (available for a fee) will be required. – Disney Premier Access and Standby Pass are available in limited numbers. – To experience the eligible attractions at Fantasy Springs, a Standby Pass (available free of charge) or Disney Premier Access (available for a fee) will be required. – Disney Premier Access and Standby Pass are available in limited numbers. – **To experience the eligible attractions at Fantasy Springs, a Standby Pass (available free of charge) or Disney Premier Access (available for a fee) will be required** – Disney Premier Access and Standby Pass are available in limited numbers. Guests will be able to enter and exit Fantasy Springs as they wish, even if they are not experiencing any attractions in the area.

⭐ 4.9/5 (20380 reviews)

National Museum of Nature and Science Ticket in Tokyo

– Visit Japan’s largest science museum with over 10,000 exhibits, located in Ueno park – You can explore everything from space and dinosaurs, Japan’s unique ecosystem, to the progress in science and technology – Look back on the history of Japan at the “Japan Gallery”, and learn about the evolution of living things and science at the “Earth Gallery”

⭐ 4.8/5 (46 reviews)

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket

Discover behind-the-scenes magic at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo
Explore authentic Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts film sets
Walk through iconic locations like Diagon Alley and the Great Hall
Book with KKday for guaranteed entry and instant confirmation

⭐ 4.8/5 (4508 reviews)

Imperial Palace East Garden and Heritage of Edo Castle Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through both ancient and modern Tokyo with our Walking Tour of the Imperial Palace. Discover the historic residence of the Shogun, now home to the Emperor of Japan. Delve into the rich history of the Samurai as you stroll through lush gardens adorned with seasonal flowers. Please note, while we won’t enter the Imperial Palace, this tour promises a fascinating exploration of its surroundings.

⭐ 4.8/5 (396 reviews)

Experiences

Wagyu & Sake Pairing Experience

First, we will give a brief explanation to our guests. This is a course where you can eat various parts of Wagyu beef. You can also enjoy ingredients unique to Japan and seasonal alcoholic beverages. Each of the 7 dishes will be paired with sake. Course content changes depending on the season. If you are interested in Japanese sake or want to try Wagyu beef, please come and enjoy dinner with us. It can also be reserved for groups. Reservations can be made by one person, so please feel free to contact us.

⭐ 4.9/5 (98 reviews)

English Stand up Comedy Show

English stand-up comedy in Tokyo’s only stand-up comedy club! Learn about real Japan from Japanese and foreign comedians based in Tokyo, along with occasional visiting comedians. All in English! This is a friendly show that could touch on anything from life in Japan to the survival strategies of sea cucumbers! We serve a variety of craft beers, mixed drinks, and snacks, 60 seconds from Shibuya Station. The comedians will be different in every show, but all hilarious. Please note that this is a live comedy show where adult topics may come up and also a bar. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Our showcase features top comedians delivering their best material.

⭐ 4.9/5 (207 reviews)

Go Kart Tour in Tokyo explore Shibuya crossing~Harajuku~Shinjuku

Go-karting in the heart of TOKYO is an experience that gives you an adrenaline rush like never before. Our sole aim is to provide the best go-karting experience with sightseeing that can satiate your hunger for adventure. Our professional guides lead you so it’s super easy Start from the Shibuya area 1hour Tour/Shibuya crossing ,Harajuku shopping district to Shinjuku . Best go kart experience in metropolitan area of Tokyo. Best way to see and feel the city, culture, and people. Let us capture the best moment of the ride and take the most iconic picture for you .Our professional guides take photos for you so you can keep them as an unforgettable memory.We have an exciting collection of costumes that you can put on and get in the feel of an epic rider.

⭐ 4.9/5 (117 reviews)

Best Samurai Experience in Tokyo

Experience the samurai experience in a museum-like place with lots of armor on display! You will choose your favorite kimono and hakama, change into a samurai costume, and learn how to use a sword from a samurai. You will learn how to draw a sword, hold a sword, swing a sword, and retract a sword. After learning basic sword usage, they practice a simple chambara (sword fight). Then we will try to exterminate bad guys to the music! You can take videos with your smart phone, take pictures with the samurai, and have a great samurai time. The teachers are authentic teachers who have appeared in major Japanese dramas and movies. Since you have come all the way to Japan on a trip, you will have a wonderful experience of Samurai culture! The dojo has many weapons on display, including swords and spears. You will also find armor on display. Samurais are waiting for you in a space that does not seem modern. ・One person can also join the tour. ・Same-day reservations are also possible.

⭐ 4.9/5 (366 reviews)

Food

A Culinary Journey Through Japan

🍽️ Sushi

The delicate art of sushi presents a symphony of flavors, featuring perfectly seasoned rice crowned with fresh seafood, vibrant vegetables, or savory eggs. Each piece is a testament to culinary precision, offering a pristine taste of Japan’s ocean bounty.

🍽️ Ramen

A comforting bowl of ramen offers a deeply satisfying experience, with rich broths, springy noodles, and an array of toppings like tender pork, crisp seaweed, and soft-boiled eggs. Exploring regional variations reveals a delightful diversity of tastes and textures across the country.

🍽️ Tempura

Crisp and golden, tempura provides a delightful textural contrast with its light, airy batter encasing fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. Served hot, often with a subtle dipping sauce, it offers a refined yet comforting indulgence.

🍽️ Sake

Sake, Japan’s revered rice wine, embodies centuries of brewing tradition, offering a spectrum of nuanced flavors from dry to sweet. Whether enjoyed warm on a cool evening or chilled with a meal, it enhances the dining experience with its elegant character.

Food & Drinks

Shibuya Local “Solo Going” Int’l Party Unlimited Drink Ex. Sunday

The Party(19:00 Starting) is included All We Can Drink(19:00-21:30) By participating in this party(“Solo attend” international Party), you can have a comfortable time. Enjoy your Tokyo traveling and Tokyo’s night life plz Enjoy your travelling until the last minute on Sunday night with international Locals is the main goal of the party! You can move around inside the party area anytime during the party. The organizer will take memorable photos for you all throughout the night. Feel free to join us!

⭐ 4.9/5 (189 reviews)

Easy Ramen making experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku

You can enjoy the ramen making experience by yourself or with friends and family. Have fun while learning about Japanese ramen in the heart of Shinjuku. You can skip the process of making noodles and soup from scratch and enjoy delicious meals easily. (Ramen soup contains pork, chicken, and beef soup.)

⭐ 4.8/5 (533 reviews)

Waraza Konparu Night Show Restaurant Reservations (Tokyo, Ginza)

Google Review 4+ star recommendation with over 100 reviews.

You can save 500 yen by purchasing in advance.

"Eza Konparu," a familiar spot on the sightseeing bus route that takes you to Ginza at night, is a show restaurant where you can enjoy entertainment and dinner together. Entertainment is a common language that everyone in the world can enjoy.

Entertainment level: ★★★★★★/Alluring level: ★★★

⭐ 4.4/5 (366 reviews)

[Discounted Price] Tokyo: Samurai Restaurant Reservation in Shinjuku | Japan

Visit the Samurai Restaurant and enjoy a thrilling performance that showcases Japanese culture. Dine in a lively atmosphere and choose from five different meals.

Enjoy the revival of the once hugely popular Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku Kabukicho, now transformed into the Samurai Restaurant
Witness a spectacular performance by dancers depicting Japanese culture, including demons, samurai, mikoshi, and festivals
Choose from five different meals included in all plans and save money by booking in advance

⭐ 4.3/5 (404 reviews)

Tours

Full Tokyo: Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace, Asakusa & Skytree

Explore Tokyo’s top landmarks in a single unforgettable day. Begin with the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest intersections, then find calm at the serene Meiji Shrine, nestled in a lush forest. Capture photos of the majestic Imperial Palace. Experience the vibrant district of Akihabara, visit the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, and end with panoramic views from the iconic Tokyo Skytree. A complete Tokyo adventure awaits!

⭐ 5.0/5 (23 reviews)

[Mt. Fuji Sparkling Scenery Day Tour] Arakurayama Sengen Park, Oshino Hakkai, Lake Kawaguchi Oishi Park, Nichikawa Clock Shop, Lake Yamanaka Scenic Experience (Departing from Tokyo)

Stroll along the shores of Lake Yamanaka, admire the graceful swans and swimming fish up close, and capture unforgettable moments on camera.
Visit Oshino Hakkai and feel its 1,200-year history. Experience the purity and mythical power of meltwater from Mount Fuji—each spring carries a unique legend.
Walk through the seasonal color palette of Oishi Park at Lake Kawaguchi. Appreciate the majestic view of Mount Fuji in its entirety and the serene beauty of nature.
At the photogenic Lawson convenience store with Mount Fuji in the back, capture the perfect blend of the trendy and the classic
Climb up the five-story pagoda in Sengen Park for Mount Fuji’s magnificent silhouette in the distance and marvel at nature’s craftsmanship.
In the town with the “Stairway to Heaven” and Hikawa Clock Shop, enjoy the quiet, traditional Japanese streets harmonizing beautifully with the view of Mount Fuji.

⭐ 4.9/5 (25 reviews)

Mount Fuji Day Tour: Arakurayama Sengen Park, Sky Ladder Town, Tokei Street, Oshino Hakkai, Oishi Park & Lawson Convenience Store with Free Delicious Kusa Mochi | Japan

Book a one-day Mount Fuji tour with KKday! Capture stunning shots from Arakurayama Sengen Park, stroll through the dreamy floral landscapes of Oishi Park, and explore Nihashi Tokei Street, a charming “Stairway Town” with a perfect Fuji view. Visit Oshino Hakkai for its crystal-clear springs and enjoy a complimentary kusa mochi. Finally, snap the iconic Fuji shot at Lawson near Lake Kawaguchi. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure!

Enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji with a friendly guide at flower-viewing spots
Travel by bus from Tokyo for a hassle-free experience, with stops at popular photo locations around Mount Fuji
Enjoy free kusa mochi, available for a limited time
Check out more recommended scenic spots:
– [One-day tour in Kamakura] Great Buddha of Kamakura, Enoden, Kamakura High School, Enoshima | Including Enoden experience fee (departing from Tokyo)
– [Guaranteed seats for 2 people] World Heritage Hida Takayama + Shirakawa-go Gassho Village | One-day tour from Nagoya | Guaranteed access to the observatory
– [Group of 2] Kyoto by the Sea Day Tour｜Amanohashidate Viewpoint Ine Funaya Japan Venice｜Depart from Osaka Kyoto

⭐ 4.8/5 (1544 reviews)

Mt. Fuji 1-Day Tour: Kawaguchiko, Oshino Hakkai & Arakurayama Sengen Park (Depart from Tokyo) | Guaranteed Departure

Discover the beauty of Oshino Hakkai with clear spring ponds and Mt. Fuji views
Snap iconic shots at the Lawson store with Mount Fuji in the backdrop
Visit Sengen Park and capture the shrine with Mount Fuji in one frame
Ride the ropeway to Tenjozan for panoramic Lake Kawaguchi scenery
Receive one complimentary Mount Fuji Izumi kusa mochi

⭐ 4.8/5 (3430 reviews)

Culture

Embracing local customs enriches any journey through Japan. Showing respect for traditions, being mindful of noise in public areas, and removing shoes when entering homes or certain establishments are simple gestures that are greatly appreciated. Quiet conversations on public transportation also contribute to a serene atmosphere for everyone.

Info

Japan is widely regarded as a remarkably safe destination, offering a sense of peace to travelers. While serious crime is rare, remaining mindful of personal belongings in busy areas is always prudent. When navigating late at night, especially in less familiar surroundings, opting for well-lit paths or licensed transportation can enhance peace of mind. Keeping important documents secure and separate from copies provides an extra layer of reassurance.

🚨 Emergency Contacts:

The tap water across Japan is generally considered safe for drinking, providing a convenient and refreshing option for hydration. For those who prefer it, bottled water is also widely accessible in stores and vending machines.