Catching on from Part 1 of Places to Visit in Japan, today I will be sharing with you some other fun places to go to as well as others that have a more hefty price tag but are totally worth the splurge, just because most of them are only found in Japan and well because a little luxury never hurt anybody.
Miscellaneous
- Kyoto Tower, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree Kobe Tower & Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Admission: Price varies but admission to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is free
Almost all the big cities that we visited while in Japan have some form of a tower which you can go to to see a 360° view of said city. It is worth going just before sunset to see the city lights come to life especially in Tokyo and Kyoto - they really are a sight to behold! Apart from enjoying city views, these towers host all kinds of restaurants and shops too.
Admission: Free, workshops at a price
The Nishijin region in Kyoto is renowned for its handmade silk weaving and kimono making. The Nishijin Textile Centre provides a one-of-a-kind experience where you can sign up for weaving workshops and also see a 10-minute kimono show while there. You can also shop for some handmade gifts for family and friends back home from their vast selection of products.
This part of Osaka, near Dotonbori river is one you just cannot miss! It is best to go at night and take your time strolling along the street and savour the different foods. One you cannot miss, Takoyaki (fried octopus balls) which are a speciality of Osaka. The food displays are out of this world and don't miss your chance to take a picture with the Glico man!
Admission: Free
The Seiko Museum in Tokyo is worth checking out even if you're not that into watches. There's a full history of timepieces, from the earliest ones to the more modern ones and I think everyone will appreciate the visit. It is advisable to book a time slot beforehand though as the museum is quite small and like that you are guaranteed entry and a more enjoyable experience.
Admission: Free
We stumbled upon this tech nook purely by chance while strolling Takeshita Dori in Harajuku, Tokyo. We entered because Mario wanted to check out some gadgets to go with his new Samsung Galaxy S10 phone and not only did we ended up buying a wireless charger and earbuds, we got to spend around 3 hours in the store trying out the various activities and experiencing the phone's features. Even if you're an Apple lover, you should definitely check this place out!
Totally worth the splurge!
When visiting Osaka, a day at Universal Studios is a total must! The admission fee is hefty, I know but it is totally worth going if you love theme parks and an adrenaline-filled day. Of course, try to go there before they open so you won't have to queue in long lines for hours on end and plan your trip wisely. If you're not fussy about wanting to sit next to your partner on every ride, queuing in the singles line will help you shorten your waiting time significantly. I recommend you stay until the very end of the day and watch the parade too!
Another one to do in Osaka. The Yamazaki Whiskey Distillery is an excellent place to visit if you like whiskey. Book the tour before you go to be guaranteed a spot, alternatively, you can go into the museum and unveil the secrets of some of the most prestigious Japanese whiskeys. We even did a tasing session of their premium whiskey selection.
Chances are you've already heard of this one before - the famous candy factory where the giant rainbow cotton candy is made and sold! The largest one will set you back 900 but we loved taking pictures with it and eating it of course!
These are somewhat of a tourist trap but cute animal and maid cafes are part and parcel of the big Japanese cities' culture. We went to both a maid cafe in Akihabara and an otter cafe which we stumbled upon by chance in another part of Tokyo. The prices are ridiculous but if you're up some a bit of unusual fun, just go for it!
The king of tourist traps but oh so worth it! The world-famous Robot Restaurant in Tokyo is a must-visit. We literally left this for the last minute because when we arrived in Tokyo we still had a week and a half to go and this was an expensive stop. Ultimately, we caved in and decided to go so I made a reservation online and we went on our last night in Tokyo. The show is out of this world and we really enjoyed the robotics, laser show and dances! Steer clear of the food though as it's not that great and costs the earth for nothing.
When visiting Japan, visiting an onsen is a must. The Oedo Onsen in Odaiba, Tokyo is perfect for first timers like us. You have to allocate a day for it though so you can enjoy all the facilities apart from the thermal baths. You can dine, watch TV and even sleep here! Be careful though because purchases made here add up.
I saved the best for last! This is probably my favourite splurge spot in all of Tokyo. Located at the Dior boutique in Ginza Six, the Dior Cafe' by Pierre Herme is one every fashionista should visit while in Tokyo. Is it expensive? Yes. Is it worth it? Also yes! The food is delicious and the pastries are to die for! I loved the decor and it is perfect for a little celebration of sorts :) Plus you'll get to eat out of Dior tableware!
That concludes my recommendations of places to visit in Japan. If you're heading there anytime soon and have any questions, just ask away! Curious to see all the stuff I got from Japan, there's a haul coming up soon as well!
