Explorer’s Journal: A Cultural Journey Through Japan with Destination Expert Claudia

Join Destination Expert Claudia on an immersive journey through Japan, where neon lit cityscapes, peaceful temple gardens, centuries old traditions, and world-renowned cuisine come together in seamless harmony. From cycling quiet backstreets in Kyoto and sipping matcha in Kamakura’s bamboo groves to riding the Shinkansen between vibrant cities and savoring sushi at its source in Tokyo, each day reveals a different rhythm of this captivating country. This is Japan at its most dynamic, refined, and endlessly inspiring.

Hi everyone, Destination Expert Claudia here! I’m checking in from Japan, where I’ve been exploring Tokyo, Kamakura, Kyoto, and Osaka, diving into everything from food tastings and cultural workshops to serene temple visits and coastal bike rides. Follow along as I share what to expect, where to go, and why Japan continues to surprise and delight at every turn.

First Tastes of Tokyo

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Starting off our Japan adventures with a food and sake tasting! (Photo: Claudia Cavero)

After a long flight, we landed in Tokyo and checked into OMO5 Tokyo Gotanda, a stylish, modern hotel with great local vibes. If you’re able to choose, Haneda Airport is much closer to the city center than Narita.    Not wanting to waste the afternoon, we jumped right into a food and sake tasting experience hosted by the hotel. It was the perfect welcome to Japan — sampling traditional bites and learning the basics of sake culture. A warm introduction to what promises to be a trip full of flavor and discovery.    I had heard so much about the convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, etc.), so that was our last stop of the day before enjoying tea night at our hotel and getting some rest. The next morning, we enjoyed a traditional onigiri breakfast. A Western option was available, but I highly recommend trying all the local food! 

A Coastal Escape to Kamakura

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Sipping some matcha in a quiet bamboo garden in Kamakura. (Photo: Claudia Cavero)

Tokyo’s public transportation is relatively easy to navigate if you’re comfortable using Google Maps, so we did just that for a few days!    Just an hour from Tokyo lies Kamakura, a peaceful seaside town known for its temples, shrines, and rich samurai history. We had a private full-day e-bike tour and were greeted by our local guide, Kota, who spoke excellent English thanks to time spent in the US.    Our ride began with a temple visit before heading to a quiet bamboo garden, a serene space where we sipped matcha and took in the calm. As we explored the town, we visited a katana shop and chatted with the owner. Did you know katanas can take up to four years to make?    We continued our day with a stop at a temple where locals perform literal “money laundering” as a ritual to invite wealth. After a delicious lunch at a local eatery, we visited the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura and ended the day along the coastline. This is a fantastic day trip option from Tokyo, whether as a full-day escape or a half-day highlight.

Cycling Through Kyoto’s Hidden Corners

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Adventuring through Kyoto by bike! (Photo: Claudia Cavero)

We’ve made it to Kyoto! Following a two-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo, we checked into our conveniently located hotel, Granvia Kyoto. That afternoon, we hopped on a relaxed bike tour of the city.    We opted for a group tour, but the experience is also available privately, and it’s a great alternative to the more crowded tourist spots. The route was flat and easy, following quiet canal paths. Along the way, we made frequent photo stops, visited temples and shrines, and even tried fresh mochi by the water.    Kenji, an experienced summer guide at Mt. Fuji, shared cultural insights throughout the ride. We wrapped up on a lively street filled with izakayas and local eateries. For anyone wanting to discover Kyoto beyond the typical tourist trail, this experience is a gem.

Art, Ritual, and Reflection in Kyoto

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A cultural experience in Kyoto. (Photo: Claudia Cavero)

This morning, we enjoyed a very special day of exclusive cultural experiences. A blend of art, tradition, and mindfulness. We started with a private visit to To-ji Temple, including a rare behind-the-scenes look at a traditional guesthouse used by the Imperial family, which was an unforgettable glimpse into historic Japan.    Next, we tried our hand at sensu fan painting, followed by a lesson in the traditional game of Tosenkyo. Do you know what it is? I got a quick explanation and started playing without fully understanding the point system (beginner’s luck, I won).    To end the day, we visited a hidden temple for a guided Zen meditation session. We first walked through a tranquil garden before settling into quiet reflection (perfect for travelers seeking peace and introspection). It was a truly grounding way to close out the day. 

Exploring Osaka and Beyond

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Some beautiful sights in Osaka! (Photo: Claudia Cavero)

No trip to Japan is complete without some time in Osaka, and we spent a full week enjoying the many options available from here. Less than an hour from Kyoto and about 2.5 hours from Tokyo, it’s a fantastic city to explore.    During our time here, we included a visit to Universal Studios Japan, including the Mario and Harry Potter worlds (very similar to the Orlando park). We also visited Nara, famous for its bowing deer, and Kobe for a delicious meal and a visit to the Herb Garden (both less than an hour away by train).    Staying within the city is also a great plan. I had a private guided tour that included Osaka Castle, souvenir shopping, a meal at a local izakaya, and of course the classic stop at the Glico sign, all fully customizable stops!

A Flavorful Farewell to Tokyo

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Ending our Japan adventure with sushi and Tokyo highlights. (Photo: Claudia Cavero)

We’re back in Tokyo today, and our main event is a delicious sushi lunch. It was fresh, elegant, and exactly what you’d expect from Tokyo’s world-famous culinary scene.    The rest of the day was left open for free time to explore Tokyo’s highlights at our own pace. From high-end shopping in Ginza to the buzzing street life of Shibuya or peaceful walks through nearby gardens, there’s no shortage of options when you’re based right in the center of it all.    Thank you for following along! In my opinion, there’s never enough time for a trip to Japan — there truly is something for everyone. Goodbye for now, Japan!