Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto and Japanese Alps

Getting there

Our entry to the country was via #narita airport, which is very well connected to #tokyo metropolitan area via train (I would not recommend using any other means of transport as it could take forever!).

Moving around the city

The best way for foreigners to move around the country was with the #japanrailpass. It is available only for visitors and it will cover most of your transportation needs. Not only will it help you move from one city to another (including the #shinkansen or bullet train), but also it will allow you to take some of the local trains, which is super useful in big cities like #tokyo. In our experience in #tokyo, we hardly had to take routes that were not covered by the #japanrailpass.

Just make sure you buy the right #railpass and duration! 

Eating out

Tokyo is a fantastic city for #foodies, as it has so many different choices: from the most traditional places to the rather fastfood-oriented #restaurants. The good thing is that unlike in other cities, in #toyko (and generally in #japan) you don't need to spend lots of money to have a nice #meal: wherever you walk you will stumble upon a local #ramen bar that will likely serve you better ramen that you have ever tried!

One of the most mindblowing foods that I tried in #tokyo was #ujikintoki, which is essentially a #dessert made of shaved #ice and #syrup . I know, it doesn't sound very exciting but it's magical!

Where to stay

Accommodation in Tokyo is very expensive (surprised?). Unless you come from another big, expensive city, you are in for a shock. Apartments in #tokyo are not only very expensive, but also tiny! However, if you are travelling with other people and share the costs, you will be able to afford a slightly better place. But prepared to share the toilet with strangers though!

What to see

Being such a huge city, there are so many things to see in Tokyo. As a Londoner, I travelled to Japan thinking that Tokyo would be my least favourite part. "It's just another big city", I thought. But oh boy, how wrong I was! Here are some of the things you should not miss while in Tokyo:

• Akihabara: this is one of the craziest places on earth! It's a #nerd paradise: #arcades, #comic shops, #videogames, #geeky merchandise, #maidcafes, etc.
• Imperial Palace: the place where the #emperor lives.
• Senso-Ji: #sensoji is a beautiful buddhist #temple located in the area of #asakusa
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Located in #shinjuku, it's one of the highest places in the city. The good news is that you can get in for free, so don't miss the chance!
• Shibuya Crossing: One of the busiest places in the world, with many shops, restaurants, etc.
• Ghibli Museum: If you are a fan of Studio #ghibli movies, you should definitely check this out! It's a beautiful place, with so many details. Because of its popularity, getting tickets can be a bit difficult though.