The major cities of Tokyo, Osaka & Kyoto form The Golden Route of Japan. Bustling cities are subjective choices during travel. These 3 have quite unique offerings and it all comes down to what you like to see and experience when traveling.
Tokyo. Fantastic shopping to be had, with some things being much more affordable than back home. Historic shrines, more food options than you could possibly indulge, and generally the most polite people you can meet, on par with Canadian’s. My takeaway was the magnificent craftsmanship of the Chefs Knives shops.
Osaka. A more playful city centered around Dontonburi and Shinsaibashi, with access to the big theme park of Universal Studios to the south, and Osaka Aquarium featuring Whale Sharks.
Kyoto. The former imperial centre with the historic Gion district, Bamboo Forests and the iconic 3 hour looped walk through thousands of Tori Gates at Fushimi Inari.
Staying near the train station in Kyoto made getting around easy, as it’s still a big city and attractions like Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and The Philosopher’s Path are a good half hour by bus or train from Kyoto train station. Upon return though, staying in a Ryokan in the far more authentic and interesting Gion District would be the most fulfilling immersive experience.
Tokyo
Osaka
Kyoto
WILT – What I am listening to ?
Don’t try to read too much into these WILT’s, it’s often just that earworm from my music library