🔖 18 min read

Japan is one of the most fulfilling and enriching countries you’ll ever explore in your life—but as much as it dazzles with its culture, cuisine, and tradition, it also comes with its own unique set of challenges.

From trying to cram as much as possible into a limited itinerary, to navigating sprawling metropolises or rural countryside routes, travelling across Japan often demands a lot from your time, attention, and stamina. Solo travellers and travel groups alike often find themselves juggling train timetables, tracking down local hotspots, or darting between ancient temples, vintage stores, ultra-modern tech hubs—all in the same afternoon. Staying online to access Google Maps, Translate, itinerary apps, or even social media is essential if you want to make the most of it all.

And then, of course, there’s the logistical hurdle of your luggage. Whether it’s a backpack, a suitcase, or several shopping bags from Kyoto’s markets or Shibuya’s side streets, dragging your belongings through busy train stations and up narrow alleyways can quickly drain your energy—and steal precious hours from your Japan adventure.

That’s where Bounce comes in. With thousands of secure luggage storage locations across Japan, Bounce lets you drop off your bags and explore freely. No more stressing over long queues at station lockers or worrying whether your suitcase will fit through the next station’s ticket gates or you find an elevator or escalator to save yourself the pain of having to drag down (or up) your belongings.

 

Bounce: The Travel Companion We Didn’t Know We Needed (But Now Can’t Travel Without)

We’re proud to share that we had teamed up with Bounce to put their service to the test across Japan—and the results genuinely transformed and improved the way we travelled. From Tokyo’s packed train stations to Osaka’s buzzing street scenes through to Kyoto’s tourist laden quarters, having Bounce in our travel toolkit made navigating Japan not only easier, but infinitely smoother.

As regular visitors to Japan, we rely on a trusted set of Japan Travel Apps and services to get the most out of every trip—and we’re happy to say that Bounce has officially earned its place on our essentials list.

With Bounce handling our luggage logistics, we were able to lighten our load and focus on what mattered most: discovering new places, taking our time in each neighbourhood, and feeling more present without the physical and mental weight of bags slowing us down. Not only did it make our recent trip better—it’s something we’ll be using again, without question, and no matter where we’re going next. Cause, yes, Bounce also offers luggage storage in over 100 of other countries across the globe.

Our goal is simple: to share this game-changing discovery—alongside our 14-day Japan itinerary—so your journey can be just as smooth, immersive, and unforgettable as ours. Because when your hands are free, your eyes (and your heart) are open to everything Japan has to offer.

 

A Curated Japan 2-Week Itinerary with Bounce

This thoughtfully crafted 14-day itinerary covers the very best of Tokyo, Kyoto (including Nara), Osaka, and Kobe—with a game-changing twist: the freedom to travel light, thanks to Bounce.
With Bounce’s secure luggage storage locations dotted near major train stations, tourist hotspots, and bustling shopping districts, you can explore each destination without being weighed down by bags. It’s a small switch that makes a massive difference.

Here’s how Bounce transforms your trip:

  • Skip the stress of station lockers, which often fill up fast—especially in busy hubs like Kyoto Station, Nara Park, Universal Studios Japan and Tokyo Station.
  • Roam hands-free on food tours in Osaka, cycling trails in Kyoto, or shopping sprees in Shibuya—no need to drag your suitcase around.
  • Store your luggage securely for multi-day side trips—leave your bags in Tokyo while you dash off to Kyoto or Osaka for a few days.
  • Ditch coins and complicated locker systems—all bookings and payments are handled easily through the Bounce app, keeping things seamless and cash-free.

Who’s This Japan Itinerary Perfect For?

This Japan 2-week itinerary is ideal for:

  • Families who need flexibility (and fewer bags to wrangle on trains).
  • Couples after a romantic getaway without the stress of hauling luggage between ryokans and ramen joints.
  • Solo travellers and backpackers looking for freedom of movement and low-fuss logistics.
  • Adventure seekers exploring Japan’s vibrant cities by foot, bike, or rail—where going light helps you go far.

 

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Touchdown, Tokyo!

streets of tokyo

After a long-haul flight and a bleary-eyed shuffle through Narita Airport, I got a second wind thanks to the magical words: Narita Express + JR Pass.

Since I’d bought a 14-day JR Rail Pass to cover my entire trip, I made a beeline for the JR East Travel Service Center right there on the airport station floor. Pro tip: have your passport and JR Pass exchange voucher ready—you’ll need both to activate it. Once it was all set up, the Narita Express ride into central Tokyo was covered, smooth, and, dare I say, luxurious after hours in the air.

Before I hopped on the train though, I grabbed a Welcome Suica card—a must for getting around Tokyo’s subways and buses. Now, full transparency here: I’m an Android user, which means I can’t add the digital Suica to my wallet like those smug Apple folk (and yes, if you’re an Apple user—definitely add it; it’s incredibly convenient). But honestly, I didn’t mind. I’m a bit of a souvenir hoarder, and the Welcome Suica’s floral design is one I proudly keep with my Japan travel stash. Plus, unlike the PASMO, which required cash-only payment at the airport, the Suica let me use my Monzo—much simpler when converting all those thousands of Yen in my head back to pounds later.

And just so you know, the JR Pass doesn’t just cover long-distance travel—it also unlocks a surprising number of local routes like:

  • Tokyo Monorail
  • Fujikyu Railway (great for Mt. Fuji views!)
  • Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit (hello, Odaiba)
  • Saitama New Urban Transit (a.k.a. the Railway Museum line)
  • and other handy JR East suburban connections

On the topic of Apple Pay or paying in Japan in general, it’s worth noting that some banking apps like Revolut won’t work in various shops or restaurants in Japan. However, if you previously added your Revolut card to your Apple Wallet, you can pay via Apple Pay without any issues.

Gliding into the city like a wannabe local, I made my way to the neighbourhood where my hotel—Hotel Graphy Shibuya—was located. Since check-in wasn’t until later, I was genuinely thankful to drop off my bags at a nearby Bounce partner just around the corner.

Hotel Graphy Shibuya 7th Floor Balcony Evening and Sunny Afternoon

With my luggage out of the way, I set off on my mission—battling jet lag and flight fatigue, fuelled by Japanese soul food and that unmistakable pulse of Tokyo energy that somehow jolts you awake better than any coffee ever could. Time to dive headfirst into the city’s rich past and electric present.

 

Day 1: Daikanyama, Nakameguro & Shibuya

shibuya crossing

We arrived in Tokyo with that classic long-haul haze clinging to us, but the moment we touched down in Daikanyama, it melted away. After dropping our bags off at a nearby Bounce partner, conveniently located just steps from Daikanyama Station, we were free to roam hands-free—and that instantly set us free to spend the day without worrying about our stuff.

With the luggage sorted, we dove headfirst into the slow, curated rhythm of the Daikanyama lifestyle. Known for its leafy backstreets, fashion-forward boutiques, and minimal-cool cafés, this part of the city feels more like Soho-meets-Copenhagen than the hyper-speed Tokyo people often imagine. We started with a cold beer and light bite at Spring Valley Brewery, a laid-back spot with local craft brews and a cosy patio that begged us to linger. Post-beer, we wandered over to Log Road Daikanyama for a top-tier pour-over and a caffeine refuel. Sitting on the deck in the soft afternoon sun, the jet lag didn’t stand a chance.

Outer view of Spring Valley Brewery Tokyo

Image Credit: Time Out

Next stop: Saigoyama Park—a local secret for unwinding with views. Set on a gentle hill, this charming park gave us a sweeping glimpse of Nakameguro and even a distant silhouette of Shibuya’s skyline. Locals walked their dogs, kids raced each other, and we just soaked it all in.

From there, it was a short stroll to what might be one of Tokyo’s most aesthetic retail sanctuaries: Daikanyama T-Site. Inside Tsutaya Books, we found everything from hard-to-find Japanese art tomes to international design magazines, coffee-table books, and niche vinyl records. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, this place is pure inspiration and hands down one of the most beautifully curated bookstores in the world.

As golden hour approached, we made our way downhill into Nakameguro, a neighbourhood that always feels like it was designed for walking slowly. The Meguro River, with its iconic sakura-lined canal, still managed to charm us despite not being in full bloom. Hungry from hours of flaneuring, we stopped in at Aloha Table for a big, beautiful bowl of Loco Moco—Hawaiian comfort food at its finest. Picture this: a juicy hamburger steak resting on fluffy white rice, smothered in rich gravy, and crowned with a perfectly runny egg. It’s no exaggeration to say we inhaled it.

Aloha Table, Hawaiian Restaurant in Tokyo

Instead of rushing back, we wandered the east side of Nakameguro, past the main canal, and found ourselves stumbling into vintage clothing shops, minimalist homeware stores, and low-key local gems that felt totally off the tourist track. This neighbourhood has a way of making even the tiniest alley feel intentional.
With our legs officially toasted, we grabbed our bags from Bounce, checked into Hotel Graphy Shibuya, and knocked out a well-earned power nap. Trust me, when your body’s stuck between time zones, there’s no better reset than a (short) good sleep.

Come evening, we eased into Tokyo’s nocturnal charm with a distinctly local twist. In a country where Western food is often reimagined with meticulous care, we headed to Hacienda Del Cielo for some Yoshoku-style Mexican food. Don’t scoff—Japan’s ability to take foreign dishes and elevate them with precision and creativity is a culinary miracle. Sitting on the rooftop terrace, sipping cocktails under glowing lanterns with panoramic views of the city, we were reminded of just how well Tokyo does rooftops, reinvention, and romance.

Full of food, satisfied from exploring, and totally won over by Tokyo’s softer side, we called it a wrap on Day 1. The trip was officially off to a perfect start.

Tokyo, goodnight.

Meguro River, surrounded by cherry blossoms (sakura), during spring season

Image Credit: Agoda

 

Day 2: Temples, Skylines & Shinjuku’s Secrets

We hit the ground running on day two—no time to waste. After a hearty power breakfast consisting of a delicious Açai bowl and a hearty bacon-and-egg toast, at the hotel, we launched straight into Tokyo’s historic core: Asakusa.
Yes, it might feel a little cliché to kick off a Tokyo trip here—but hear me out. Asakusa is the perfect gateway to the city. There’s something grounding about beginning your journey in a place steeped in Edo-period energy—it felt like a welcome-back hug from Tokyo itself.

As we passed beneath the towering Kaminarimon Gate, its massive red lantern glowing like a beacon, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d stepped into a cinematic version of the past—only without the samurai duels. Senso-ji Temple buzzed with life. Locals and tourists alike were lighting incense, tying omikuji fortunes, and soaking in the spiritual hum of Tokyo’s oldest temple.

Kaminarimon Gate, with cherry blossoms near the roof of the gate

Image Credit: Wikipedia

The air was thick with the smell of street food, and resistance was futile. I caved—hard. Fluffy ningyo-yaki oozing sweet red bean paste? Absolutely. A towering matcha soft serve from Suzukien that practically defied gravity? Oh yes. Level seven matcha might sound intimidating, but it tasted like a velvet green tea party in my mouth. I also fell into a rabbit hole of strawberry-flavoured everything—cakes, mochi, daifuku. Does Japan have a national strawberry obsession this time of year? Clearly, yes! I wasn’t complaining.

t-shirt selection at Kimono REborn that upcycles kimono fabric to be combined with high quality tshirts and apparell

Somewhere between the snacks and the souvenir stalls, our shopping mode got activated. I stumbled across Kimono Reborn Tokyo, an incredible shop that upcycled vintage kimono fabric into bags, caps, even sneakers. Think traditional patterns with a streetwear edge. I grabbed a few gifts (okay, and a little something for myself) and smiled at the sweet exchange rate. If you’re in Asakusa, this store, including its super friendly staff, is a hidden gem—don’t miss it.

Naturally, I had now acquired more bags than hands. But with a Sumida River cruise on the itinerary, I wasn’t about to drag it all with me. Thankfully, the Asakusa Tourist Information Center (just north of Senso-ji) came to the rescue with a Bounce storage service. Bless.

A vivid view of the Sumida River, buildings, and a bridge

Image Credit: Tripadvisor

Lighter and ready to swap temple bells for skyline thrills, we boarded the Tokyo Mizube Line water bus from Asakusa Pier. Cruising down the Sumida River, the city drifted by like a dream—Tokyo Skytree gleaming in the not so far distance, bridges arcing overhead, and pockets of riverside life flashing past that made us want to jump off and explore every single one.

We retrieved our bags and detoured to Ueno for some park strolling and museum hopping. Ueno is one of Tokyo’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods and an ideal place to slow things down after the sensory overload of Asakusa.

The sprawling grounds of Ueno Park offered a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively. With tree-lined paths, tranquil ponds, and a scattering of street performers and artists, it’s the kind of place that invites you to wander without a plan. People lounged on benches, students sketched under sakura trees, and for a moment, Tokyo’s high energy melted into stillness.

Our main stop here was the Tokyo National Museum—Japan’s oldest and most prestigious museum, tucked in the northern corner of the park. It’s a treasure trove of Japanese history and craftsmanship, from samurai armour and intricately painted scrolls to delicate ceramics and ancient Buddhist statuary. The Honkan (Japanese Gallery) in particular offered a stunning walk through the country’s cultural evolution. If you’ve got even a passing interest in Japanese history or design, this place will have you completely absorbed for hours.

After soaking in centuries of artistry and storytelling, we took a leisurely stroll through the park’s quieter corners, letting the day settle around us. By then, the sky had begun to blush with sunset hues—and it was time to dive back into the urban madness.

As the sun dipped low, we rolled into Shinjuku—a neon jungle that is Tokyo dialled up to eleven—where skyscrapers, arcades, bars, and bizarre themed cafés collide in a neon-soaked Japanese fever dream. It’s like stepping into the brain of a hyperactive robot with a flair for drama, nightlife, and seriously good ramen. We headed straight for the glowing maze that is Omoide Yokocho (aka Piss Alley—but don’t let the name fool you). Squeezed into a smoky yakitori joint, we sat elbow-to-elbow with locals, inhaling grilled skewers and knocking back highballs alongside Tokyo’s salarymen.

Omoide Yokocho at night, with bright signages of restaurants and shops

Image Credit: Tripadvisor

Next stop: Golden Gai. This nightlife labyrinth is a chaotic wonderland of micro-bars, each more eccentric than the last. We ended up in a jazz bar the size of a wardrobe—and it absolutely ruled. One cocktail, one sax solo, and a dozen stories later, we called it a night.

Tokyo doesn’t ease you in gently. It grabs your hand and sprints. And we were all in.

 

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Day 3: Harajuku: Shrines, Shopping & Swinging for the Fences

Takeshita Street

Image Credit: Plan My Japan

Another early start—but with Tokyo waiting outside, who’s complaining?

We dove straight into the sensory whirlwind that is Takeshita Street in Harajuku. Neon signs buzzed, crêpes sizzled, and the air smelled like a bubblegum fever dream. Think pastel everything, girls in cosplay sipping matcha bubble tea, and rainbow cotton candy from Totti so photogenic we were practically an influencer magnet. It was chaos—in the best possible way.

Our next stop was the mipig cafe on Takeshita Street. Here, we traded our iced lattes for tiny snorts and wiggly tails. Imagine sipping coffee while teacup-sized piglets clamber into your lap like it’s their full-time job—and honestly, they’re very good at it. These little guys were ridiculously cute, snuffling around with their mini hooves, occasionally flopping down mid-snuggle like they’d just run a marathon (they hadn’t).

Pigs of different sizes and colours in Mipig cafe in Harajuku

Image Credit: Tokyo Fox

From there, we wandered through the Jingumae backstreets (Jingūmae (神宮前) is actually the official district name of the area in Shibuya Ward where Harajuku is located), brushing past tucked-away cafés, independent boutiques, and concept stores that looked more like art installations than places to shop.

After snagging a few too many impulse buys, we made a pit stop at the local Bounce partner, Harajuku Tourist Information Center. Honestly, a lifesaver. The staff were warm, spoke English, and were more than happy to help us store our bags for the afternoon. Bonus: they had a fantastic selection of flyers for food tours, bus routes, and local neighbourhood guides that actually looked… good? We picked a few for future inspo.

yoyogi park fountain

Feeling lighter (and slightly more stylish), we strolled into the heart of Yoyogi Park. The contrast was surreal—suddenly we were surrounded by open skies, buskers strumming guitars, couples dancing, and a parade of dogs so fashionable they could’ve walked the runway at Omotesando Hills.

That calm energy followed us into Meiji Jingu Shrine, where towering torii gates and ancient trees cast dappled shadows across the gravel paths. It’s hard to believe this tranquil forest sits just steps from Harajuku’s electric pulse. We were lucky enough to witness a traditional wedding procession—formal kimono, solemn footsteps, and the soft shuffle of geta on stone. Pure magic.

From there, we strolled down Omotesando, letting the rhythm of the city gently build back up. The architecture turned sleek, the shops impossibly refined, and by the time we reached Gaienmae, the vibe had gone from forest sanctuary to urban sophistication.

Meiji Jingu Gaien Batting Center

Image Credit: All About Japan

Then came a surprise twist—Meiji Jingu Gaien Batting Center. Tucked between the Japan National Stadium and Akasaka Palace, this retro gem lets us swing away our stress. Helmet on, bat in hand, I learned two things fast: fastballs are humbling, and I weirdly rock a batting helmet. A quick, unexpected rush that only Tokyo could offer.

Afterwards, we looped back to the Harajuku Tourist Information Center, where we picked up our bags (shoutout again to the friendly team there!). With arms full but spirits high, we made our way to Shibuya, ready to watch the city light up and take on the night.

We wrapped up the day with a rooftop rush at Shibuya Sky, the city fanned out beneath us like a glittering sea of dreams. And just when we thought Tokyo couldn’t impress us more, Nonbei Yokocho whispered one final surprise—lantern-lit alleyways, smoky yakitori, and the kind of tiny bars where strangers become sake-sharing friends by night’s end.

A perfect Tokyo day: chaotic, serene, stylish, and strange—all at once.

 

Day 4: Romancing it up at Hakone – Steam, Sculptures & Samurai Vibes

If you’re not staying overnight in Hakone (though we highly recommend it if you can), an early start is absolutely essential to make the most of this magical mountain escape. We caught the Shinkansen from Shinagawa Station, making full use of our JR Rail Pass, and zipped off to Odawara Station. From there, we transferred to the Romancecar—more romantic in name than experience, though we suppose it earns its title by delivering you to one of the most picturesque corners of Japan.

As the train wove through rolling hills and countryside, we were treated to cinematic vistas—coastal panoramas near Katase-Enoshima, mountain silhouettes in the distance, and that serene, seasonal beauty Japan does so effortlessly.

Romancecar heading down the Hakone Pass to Odawara

Image Credit: Reddit

Upon arriving at Hakone-Yumoto Station, we left our bags at a nearby Bounce location (lifesaver, truly), and set off lighter and ready for adventure. Our first destination: the Hakone Ropeway. We ascended straight into the clouds, the landscape transforming beneath us as we approached Owakudani, an active volcanic zone cloaked in mist and the unmistakable scent of sulfur. Naturally, we indulged in the local specialty—black eggs boiled in volcanic springs, said to add seven years to your life. We’ll check back on that in 2065.

Hakone Ropeway with a view of Owakudani and Mount Fuji

Image Credit: GetYourGuide

From the clouds to creativity: our next stop was the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a surreal blend of art and nature. Think larger-than-life sculptures sprawled across lush lawns, a tranquil Picasso Pavilion, and even a hot spring foot bath surrounded by installations. It was like strolling through a dream where art decided to stretch out under the sun.

Next up was a quick leap through time at the Hakone Checkpoint, a historic Edo-era station where samurai once monitored travelers along the ancient Tokaido Road. And just when we thought the day couldn’t get more cinematic, we boarded a pirate ship (yes, a full-on pirate ship) and sailed across Lake Ashi, with Mt. Fuji popping into frame like a majestic photobomber on every corner of the lake.

We returned to Tokyo that evening glowing—skin softened by hot springs, bags full of memories (and maybe a hint of sulfur), and hearts full to the brim.

The beautiful yet serene view of Lake Ashi

Image Credit: Rakuten

 

Day 5: Tokyo’s Trendiest Corners – A Treasure Hunt Through Hipster Havens

By Day 4, Tokyo wasn’t just a city to us—it felt like a character we’d grown close to. After a few jam-packed days of temple hopping, skyline chasing, and food binging, we wanted a change of pace. No ticking off landmarks or chasing train schedules—just a day to drift. We embraced our inner flâneurs, letting the streets guide us through Tokyo’s quieter, quirkier corners.

The kind of neighbourhoods where thrift shops outnumber convenience stores and every café latte comes with a story. It was our last full day before heading out of the city, and we wanted to soak in Tokyo’s texture—not its tourist checklist.

Shimokitazawa – Where Vintage Meets Vinyl

We kicked off the day in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo’s laid-back capital of vintage cool. It felt like walking through an Instagram filter—rustic signs, ivy-covered walls, and indie music seeping from second-floor cafés. First stop? New York Joe Exchange, a former public bathhouse-turned-thrift shop that now overflows with retro jackets and obscure band tees. I scored a vintage baseball jacket with the perfect “I thrifted this in Tokyo” energy.

People casually walking around the streets of Shimokitazawa

Image Credit: Architectural Digest

Next, we wandered into Flamingo, a neon-lit boutique with 80s windbreakers, old-school Levi’s, and a dangerously tempting accessories corner. After all that digging (and almost adopting a pair of iconic sneakers), I needed caffeine.

At the usual in Shimokita, we enjoyed a strong black coffee alongside their signature sloppy joe on shokupan. The vibe was refreshingly understated—tucked away from the main drag, it felt more local than the typical hip coffee spots. Off the high street and free from the usual buzz, we actually got to chat with the staff, which made the whole experience feel even more personal.

Accessories in hand, new jacket on my shoulders, I found myself lost (literally) in a labyrinth of side streets filled with hole-in-the-wall bars, record shops, and ramen joints where the only English words were “Open” and “Menu.”

Streets of Shimokitazawa

Koenji – The Punk Rock Playground

From Shimokitazawa, we hopped further west to Koenji. Gritty, artsy, and buzzing with underground flair, this neighbourhood felt like the Tokyo version of a DIY zine. Our first and only mission: more vintage! We dove headfirst into the wild maze that is the Kita-Kore Building, a local hideout filled with out-there fashion, it could have been a Tokyo Fashion Week after-party.

Traditional yet busy neighbourhood in Koenji, with punk rock elements

Image Credit: Escape

Right around the corner, FurugiStar had a treasure trove of patterned shirts, beat-up band tees, and jackets that screamed “I knew The Strokes before you.” In Koenji, even window shopping feels like performance art.

We paused at the BnA Hotel, not to check in, but to grab a drink and stare in awe at the lobby, which doubles as an immersive art space. Where else could you sip cocktails while sitting under a ceiling mural of a giant koi fish?

Colourful lobby at BnA Hotel in Koenji

Image Credit: Time Out

Back to Nakameguro, Daikanyama & Ebisu Because Why not

Now that our hands were full of thrifted treasures, we made a genius pit stop at a Bounce location in Nakameguro to drop off our haul. Honestly, this move was elite-level travel logic—free hands meant more room for street snacks, spontaneous souvenirs, and whatever else the day had in store. We’d already wandered through Nakameguro earlier in the trip, but it’s one of those Tokyo neighbourhoods that deserves a second, third, even fourth look—each visit reveals a new charm.

Strolling the banks of the Meguro River, framed by Sakura trees just beginning to blush with spring’s promise, the pace slowed. The city felt quieter here, almost like Tokyo had exhaled. We perched outside the Sidewalk Stand corner coffee shop with a flaky pastry, watching stylish locals walk their equally stylish dogs—many of which were better dressed than I was!

Modern architecture of Tsutaya Books Daikanyama (or T-Site Daikanyama) in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan

Image Credit: Wikipedia

From there, we drifted back into Daikanyama—a place that feels like Tokyo’s answer to a minimalist European city. Crisp, elegant, too cool for school. We browsed boutique shelves lined with handcrafted ceramics and niche teas, lost ourselves AGAIN in the design section at T-Site, and marvelled at how even the bookstores here feel like boutique hotels.

As the sun dipped behind the rooftops, we made our way to Ebisu Yokocho – one of the more local Yokocho in Tokyo, where paper lanterns lit the narrow alleys with a warm glow. Perched on a barstool at Kushiwakamaru, we dove into our latest obsession—chargrilled Miyazaki chicken with a punchy yuzu pepper kick. Each smoky, sizzling bite was a masterclass in umami, pulling us deeper into the rich, fragrant soul of Tokyo’s backstreets.

Restaurants and a 7-Eleven store in Ebisu Yokocho

Image Credit: Japan Journeys

Vinyl, Whisky, and the Soul of Daikanyama

Just when we thought the day had peaked, we stumbled upon Bar Crimjon —a hidden gem tucked beneath the street, marked only by an unassuming door. Inside, it was all lowlights, spinning vinyl, and a whisky lineup that redefined our idea of a perfect Tokyo night.

set up at Bar crimjohn a dive bar and jazz bar in Daikanyama tokyo

The owner, a certified Anglophile with a deep love for British rock, lit up at the mention of Bowie, Radiohead, and The Beatles. As we swapped stories and song recommendations, he casually DJ’d our conversation—pulling records we mentioned and letting the music weave into the moment. It was spontaneous, soulful, and unforgettable.

Shimokitazawa gave us an edge. Koenji gave us rhythm. Nakameguro offered peace. And Daikanyama? That gave us Tokyo’s secret soul.

 

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And just like that— 5 days in Japan wrapped up, but the adventure’s just heating up.

Yasukuni-Dōri, Kabukicho

From Tokyo’s serene shrines and chaotic streets to Hakone’s volcanic clouds and pirate ships (yep, still real), we’d barely scratched the surface of what Japan had to offer.

But hold onto your rail passes and top up those Suica Cards, because next up we’re trading neon fever dreams for ancient temples and bamboo groves. That’s right—Kyoto’s calling, and she’s bringing history, gardens, and a little side trip to a deer-filled wonderland (we see you, Nara). Plus, you know we’ve got Bounce by our side, keeping us light and luggage-free, nimble, and ready to bow politely while eating matcha parfaits.

See you in the next chapter—because Japan’s not done dazzling us yet.