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Zhaokun's Japan Guide - Climb, Dine & Explore

 last updated: 09/29/2024

1. Introduction

Welcome to my guide! Whether you love rock climbing, trying out amazing food, exploring museums, or shopping for unique finds, Japan has something for everyone. I’ve traveled to Japan several times and want to share my favorite spots for climbing, dining, and exploring Japan's rich cultural scene. Whether you’re scaling walls or sampling sushi, I hope you’ll find this guide useful as you explore Japan's diverse cities.

2. General Tips for Japan

Public Transportation

Japan has one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world. Trains, subways, and buses are reliable, clean, and run on time. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  • Tokyo Subway Passes: If you’re staying in Tokyo for a few days, consider getting a Tokyo Subway Pass, which allows unlimited travel on all Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. There are 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour options, which can be cost-effective if you plan to move around the city frequently.

  • SUICA/PASMO Cards: These rechargeable smart cards can be used on almost all forms of public transportation, including trains, buses, and subways. You can purchase these cards at airport train stations or major JR stations. Simply tap the card at the entry gate, and the fare will be automatically deducted when you exit. SUICA/PASMO cards can also be used for small purchases at vending machines and convenience stores.

  • Google Maps: This app is highly accurate for public transit directions in Japan. You can check real-time train schedules, platform information, and even the cost of tickets. It’s also great for navigating buses and walking routes. Use it to plan your routes in advance and check which train cars are best for easy transfers.

  • JR Pass: If you’re planning to travel between cities, such as from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is a great option. It allows unlimited travel on JR lines, including the famous Shinkansen (bullet trains), for a set number of days. Make sure to buy the pass before you arrive in Japan, as it is not sold domestically at the same price.

Data Streaming

Staying connected while traveling is essential for navigating, finding restaurants, and streaming content. Here are your best options for data access:

  • ESIM: If your phone supports eSIM, you can easily purchase a prepaid data plan for Japan online and activate it before you arrive. This eliminates the need for a physical SIM card and gives you instant access to mobile data. Companies like Airalo and Ubigi offer convenient eSIM plans tailored to short-term travelers.

  • Pocket Wi-Fi: One of the most popular and convenient ways to stay online in Japan is renting a pocket Wi-Fi device. You can reserve one in advance and pick it up at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel. These devices offer unlimited internet access and can be shared among multiple users. Pocket Wi-Fi is ideal for groups or families traveling together.

  • SIM Cards: If you prefer a physical SIM card, you can buy a prepaid data SIM card at major airports or convenience stores like 7-Eleven. These SIM cards come with varying amounts of data and can be used for mobile browsing, navigation, and streaming.

  • Free Wi-Fi: Japan has plenty of free Wi-Fi hotspots, especially in large cities. Many cafes, restaurants, and tourist attractions offer free Wi-Fi, but it’s always safer to rely on your own connection for navigation and important tasks.

Language

While Japanese is the primary language spoken, English is widely understood in tourist areas and big cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. However, in more remote regions, English proficiency may be limited. Here are a few tips:

  • Essential Phrases: Learning a few basic Japanese phrases will go a long way in helping you communicate. For example:
    • Hello – Konnichiwa
    • Thank you – Arigatou gozaimasu
    • Yes – Hai
    • No – Iie
    • Excuse me – Sumimasen
    • I don’t speak Japanese – Nihongo wakarimasen
  • Signs and Menus: Major tourist spots have signs and menus in both English and Japanese. If you’re visiting smaller, local places, Google Translate’s camera function can help you understand menus and signs in real-time.
  • Body Language: Japanese people are generally very helpful and polite, so if language barriers arise, don’t hesitate to use gestures or show addresses on your phone. People will often go out of their way to assist you.

Advance Bookings

Japan is a country that values planning and punctuality, so making reservations in advance is a smart move:

  • Climbing Gyms: Most climbing gyms don't require reservations, check the gym’s website if you would like to confirm.
  • Fine Dining: Restaurants, especially Michelin-starred ones, often require reservations months in advance. If you’re staying at a hotel, you can ask the concierge to help secure a booking. For more casual places, like ramen shops or sushi bars, no reservations are needed, but you may have to queue during peak hours.
  • Shows and Attractions: Popular attractions like the Ghibli Museum or traditional theater performances (e.g., Kabuki) sell out fast. It’s advisable to book tickets online as early as possible.
  • Transport: If you’re taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) between cities, you can buy tickets on the day of travel, but if you want reserved seats, it’s better to book a few days ahead. For long-distance travel, you may want to look into a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to visit multiple cities within a short period.

3. Food Recommendations

Ramen 拉面

  • Ichiran 一兰拉面 (Tokyo) – Specializes in tonkotsu (pork broth) ramen.
  • Fuunji 风云児 (Tokyo) – Famous for its tsukemen (dipping ramen).

Sushi 寿司

  • Sushi Dai 寿司大 (Tokyo) – Fresh seafood sushi at the famous Tsukiji Market.
  • Sushi no Midori 回转寿司 (Tokyo) – Affordable and delicious sushi at various locations.

Yakitori 烧鸟

Grilled chicken skewers, often served at casual izakayas (Japanese pubs).

  • Torikizoku 鸟贵族 (Tokyo, Osaka) – A famous chain serving a wide range of yakitori at affordable prices.

Matcha 抹茶

Powdered green tea.

  • Matcha Tokyo 抹茶东京 (Harajuku) – Try their rich matcha ice cream.




Bakery 烘焙

  • Joel Robuchon Bakery 乔尔·鲁布松烘焙店 (Shibuya) – A bakery offering a wide variety of French-Japanese fusion pastries.
  • Ginza Kimuraya 银座木村屋 (Tokyo) – Famous for their anpan (red bean paste buns).

Seafood BBQ 烧烤海鲜

  • Isomaru Suisan 矶丸水产 (Tokyo) – A popular chain for casual seafood BBQ, especially late-night meals.

  • Kurobuta Yokocho 黑猪横丁 (Osaka) – Known for its lively atmosphere and grilled seafood.

Uni (Sea Urchin) 海胆

  • TBA
  • TBA



Seafood Don 海鲜盖饭

A bowl of rice topped with fresh seafood, such as sashimi.

  • Tsukiji Donburi つきじ丼 (Tokyo) – Located near the former Tsukiji Market, known for fresh seafood bowls.
  • Uoriki 鱼力寿司 (Tokyo) – Try their kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) for a variety of fish.

Unagi Don 鳗鱼饭

Grilled eel served over a bed of rice with a sweet soy-based sauce.

Tempura 天妇罗

Lightly battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables.

  • Tendon Tenya 天丼てんや (Tokyo) – Affordable and delicious tempura served as tendon (tempura rice bowl).
  • Tempura Kondo 天妇罗近藤 (Tokyo) – A Michelin-starred tempura restaurant for a more refined experience.

Tonkatsu 炸猪排

Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, usually served with shredded cabbage and rice.

  • Maisen 梅森炸猪排 (Tokyo) – One of the most famous tonkatsu restaurants in Japan.
  • Tonkatsu Tonki 炸猪排豚吉 (Tokyo) – A long-established tonkatsu restaurant with a traditional atmosphere.

Okonomiyaki 大阪烧

A savory Japanese pancake made with batter, cabbage, and various fillings such as meat or seafood.

  • Ajinoya 味乃屋 (Osaka) – One of the best spots in Osaka for authentic okonomiyaki.
  • Chibo 千房 (Tokyo and Osaka) – A well-known okonomiyaki chain with multiple locations.

Takoyaki 章鱼烧

A popular street food made of small round dough balls filled with octopus, tempura scraps, and green onion.

  • Takoyaki Yamachan 章鱼烧山ちゃん (Osaka) – Famous for its crispy and flavorful takoyaki.
  • Gindaco 银座こ (Tokyo) – A popular chain offering consistently good takoyaki.

Gyoza 饺子

Japanese-style dumplings, usually pan-fried and filled with minced meat and vegetables.

  • Harajuku Gyozaro 原宿饺子楼 (Tokyo) – Famous for its juicy pan-fried dumplings.
  • Osaka Ohsho 大阪王将 (Multiple Locations) – A well-known chain serving gyoza and other Chinese-Japanese dishes.

Fugu (Pufferfish) 河豚

A delicacy in Japan known for its potential danger if not prepared properly. It is served as sashimi or in hot pots.

  • Yamada Fugu 山田河豚 (Tokyo) – Specializes in expertly prepared fugu dishes.
  • Fugu Fukuji 河豚福治 (Osaka) – Famous for its high-quality pufferfish prepared safely by licensed chefs.

Crab 螃蟹

Japan is famous for its variety of crab dishes, particularly during crab season. Crab is typically served grilled, in hot pots, or as sashimi.

  • Kani Doraku かに道乐 (Osaka) – A famous chain for crab, often recognizable by the giant crab sign outside.

Japanese Curry 咖喱

A thick, mild curry usually served with rice and fried meat like tonkatsu. Japanese curry is a comfort food loved by many.

  • Coco Ichibanya CoCo壱番屋 (Multiple Locations) – A famous chain where you can customize your curry’s spiciness and toppings.
  • Go! Go! Curry ゴーゴーカレー (Tokyo) – Known for its dark, rich curry and huge portions.

Japanese-French Cuisine 日式法餐

A fusion of French culinary techniques with Japanese ingredients. Many restaurants offering this fusion cuisine have earned Michelin stars.

  • Narisawa 成澤 (Tokyo) – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering contemporary French-Japanese fusion.
  • L'Effervescence (Tokyo) – Another Michelin-starred restaurant known for its elegant and innovative fusion dishes.

Shabu-shabu 涮涮锅

A hot pot dish where thin slices of meat and vegetables are quickly cooked in boiling water, then dipped in sauces.

  • Nabezo 涮锅名家 (Tokyo) – A well-known shabu-shabu restaurant offering a variety of meats and vegetables.
  • Sukiyaki Kappo Nakashima (Osaka) – Offers high-quality wagyu beef for shabu-shabu and sukiyaki.

Kaitenzushi (Conveyor Belt Sushi) 回转寿司

A fun and casual way to enjoy sushi, where plates of sushi are served on a rotating conveyor belt.

  • Kura Sushi 无添くら寿司 (Multiple Locations) – A popular chain known for its affordable, fresh sushi.
  • Sushiro 寿司郎 (Multiple Locations) – Another great chain for conveyor belt sushi.

Omakase 寿司套餐

A personalized meal where the chef selects the dishes for you, often focusing on seasonal ingredients.

  • Sukiyabashi Jiro 数寄屋桥次郎 (Tokyo) – One of the most famous omakase experiences, made famous by the documentary Jiro Dreams of Sushi.
  • Sushi Saito 鮨さいとう (Tokyo) – Renowned for its perfect balance of flavors, and considered one of the best sushi omakase experiences in the world.

Kaiseki 怀石料理

A traditional multi-course Japanese dinner that highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation.

  • Kikunoi 菊乃井 (Kyoto) – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exquisite kaiseki dining experience.
  • Roan Kikunoi 菊乃井露庵 (Kyoto) – Another kaiseki gem by the same chef, known for its exceptional courses and attention to detail.

4. Climbing Gyms

Tokyo Gyms:

  • B-Pump Ogikubo: One of Tokyo’s most popular gyms with a mix of bouldering and lead climbing. It’s spacious, friendly, and a great spot for both beginners and seasoned climbers.
  • T-Wall Climbing Gym (Kinshicho): This gym offers great walls for climbers of all levels and is conveniently located near a bustling area with lots of dining options.

Kyoto/Osaka Gyms:

  • PekiPeki (Kyoto): A cozy bouldering gym that has a welcoming local community. The staff is helpful, and it’s an excellent place for a casual climb.
  • Gravity Research (Osaka): A huge gym in the heart of Osaka with top-rope and lead climbing. It’s perfect for travelers since it's centrally located and has great routes.

5. Cultural & Leisure Activities

Museums:

  • Mori Art Museum (Tokyo): My personal favorite art museum. It offers fantastic exhibits and a stunning rooftop view of the Tokyo skyline.
  • Ghibli Museum (Mitaka): Perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli’s animated films. You’ll need to book your tickets well in advance, but it’s well worth it for the magical experience.

Shows:

  • Robot Restaurant (Tokyo): A crazy, over-the-top spectacle featuring robots, dancers, and lights. It’s kitschy, fun, and unforgettable.
  • Kabuki Theatre (Tokyo): For a more traditional experience, catch a Kabuki performance. The intricate costumes and historic performances are truly a sight to see.

Shopping:

  • Harajuku (Tokyo): If fashion is your thing, explore Harajuku’s eclectic boutiques and street fashion. It’s a great place to find unique clothes and accessories.
  • Shimokitazawa (Tokyo): Known for its vintage shops and quirky finds, this bohemian neighborhood is ideal for anyone looking for retro treasures.

6. Miscellaneous Recommendations

Accommodation:

Neighborhoods I like to stay in:

  • Tokyo: 

    • Shinjuku 新宿: Lively area with plenty of restaurants, bars, and easy transportation connections.
  • Yokohama:
    • Minato Mirai: A beautiful, waterfront area with scenic views, shopping, and access to key landmarks like the Cup Noodles Museum.
  • Kamakura:
    • Kamakura Station area: Stay near the train station for convenience, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and easy access to nearby attractions.
  • Kyoto:
    • Sanjo/Shijo 三条/四条: A central location near the river, with easy access to shopping, nightlife, and key sightseeing areas.
  • Osaka:
    • Namba 難波: Known for street food, shopping, and nightlife. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the vibrant Dotonbori area.

Climbing Gear:

  • Montbell (Shinjuku, Tokyo): This store has an excellent selection of climbing gear and outdoor equipment. If you need to pick up chalk, shoes, or accessories, this is the place to go.


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