As someone who’s been to Japan twice, there’s a couple things I learned the first time around that made my second trip superior to the first- here’s everything you need to know.
Major cities in Japan
There are so many cities to visit in Japan-these are simply the most widely known & visited especially when it comes to tourism.
- Tokyo: Ultimate city vibes-futuristic skyscrapers, endless shopping, and street food from vending machines to Michelin-star ramen.
- Kyoto: Slow-paced & relaxed- the heart of traditional Japan with thousands of temples, beautiful gardens, and geisha culture.
- Osaka: Laid back & casual – Known for street food, nightlife, and a love for takoyaki.
- Nara: Peaceful & historic — home to ancient temples, sacred deer, and serene parks
Personal favourites: Tokyo & Kyoto.
Districts in Tokyo
Consider these mini cities all over the massive city of Tokyo.
- Ginza: Tokyo’s luxury playground — upscale boutiques & fine dining in a polished setting.
- Shibuya: iconic scramble crossing, trendy shops & unique style.
- Shinjuku: 24/7 bustling nightlife, and the world’s busiest train station.
- Akihabara: anime paradise, gaming, and electronic gadgets,
- Ueno: museums, parks, and a lively market blending history with local everyday life.
Personal Favourites: Ginza, Shibuya and Ueno.
Hotel Recommendations
- Tokyo Ginza – The Blossom Hibiya: Modern, elegant, and perfectly located for shopping and city views.
- Tokyo Ueno – Hotel Resol: A compact, cozy stay ideal for your first recovery night after arriving in Tokyo.
- Kyoto – Hotel Kanra Kyoto: Traditional meets luxury—experience serene Kyoto vibes near temples and quiet streets.
- Osaka – Hotel Resol: Chic and convenient, with easy access to Osaka’s vibrant nightlife and shopping.
Transportation & getting around
Getting Between Cities & Airports:
Japan’s train system is incredibly efficient, and riding the Shinkansen (bullet train) is an experience in itself. You can travel from Tokyo to Kyoto in about 2.5 hours, while enjoying the beautiful countryside views. However, the train stations are massive and can be a bit overwhelming. If you’re taking the train between cities, I highly recommend arriving at least an hour early to give yourself plenty of time to navigate and find your platform. As soon as you arrive, show your ticket to a station staff member and ask them to point you in the right direction, so you dont accidentally waste time going in the wrong direction.
Pro-Tip: Buy your Shinkansen tickets from city to city ahead of time online (you could even do this same day or day before)- this allows you to save time, helps you secure your preferred seat and departure time for extra peace of mind. (I purchased all my tickets on Klook!)
If you’re flying in or out, booking an airport pickup driver or simply taking the taxi from the airport is a great option if you have a lot of luggage, don’t feel like navigating trains after a long flight or are travelling with a family.
Getting Around Within Cities:
Getting around big cities like Tokyo or Osaka is also a breeze thanks to the super-efficient local trains and subways. I strongly recommend that you download the Suica card app on your phone and perhaps load $10 at a time to have ready so you can just tap and go. While trains are the most cost-effective way to get around, Uber and taxis are also available if you’re out late, or in a rush. And if time is your priority, it helps to check google maps as there were times when an Uber could get us there faster than the train.
Walking Pro-Tip: Japan tends to get a good amount of rain year round- especially in the summer months when it’s typhoon season. Definitely be prepared to purchase a small umbrella from 7/11 in Japan or get ahead and pack one in your suitcase.
Food & Dining in Japan (Muslim-friendly options)
Finding halal food in Japan was an interesting challenge. Options aren’t exactly plentiful, and many halal restaurants tend to serve similar menus—mainly ramen. On my first trip, I tried a new place almost every day and only discovered my favorite spots near the end of my stay.
It might sound a bit unorthodox since most people look forward to trying a variety of restaurants while traveling, but one thing that truly improved my experience in Japan the second time around was sticking to what I knew I loved. I went back to one of my favourite spots for chicken katsu curry for about 80% of my dinners. At that point, having a consistently satisfying meal mattered more to me than exploring every halal ramen shop in Tokyo.
Pro-tip #1: Many restaurant chains in Japan share the same name, but the atmosphere, seating, and overall vibe can vary a lot depending on the location. It’s worth double-checking which branch you’re heading to. A quick Google search can help—tap through the photos and use the “Vibe” tab to get a feel for the seating layout. Some locations might only offer bar seating or have tight, cramped spaces, so it’s good to know what to expect in advance.
Pro-tip #2: I travelled to Japan in August the first time and in May the second time. I much preferred the weather in May over august as the August temperature ranged from 30°C to 35°C. If you’re travelling to Japan between June to August, be prepared that some restaurants are small and cramped with just bar seating and no air conditioning, which can be uncomfortable if you’re not prepared. Dress in light breathable clothing and I strongly recommend you take a mini portable pocket fan with you- this thing saved me so many times at train stations, in the subway and at restaurants.
Pro-tip #3: Many of the halal restaurants in Japan close relatively early around 9 pm- which can be an issue if you’re someone who enjoys eating dinner late or perhaps you don’t get around to dinner until you finish whatever excursions you have planned. So keeping this in mind, if you’re planning to have dinner at a specific restaurant on a given day, always check their hours of operation to plan your schedule accordingly.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of Halal restaurants in Japan by city and some menu items I tried and enjoyed during my trip.
Kyoto
- TOP PICK: Mabrur Halal Dining Kyoto: (South asian cuisine) Menu highlights: Butter chicken & garlic naan, Kebab platters / Prayer room available / Close-by: Nishiki Market
- Halal Ramen Honolu Premier – Kyoto Gion (Ramen) Menu highlights: Spicy chicken ramen / close-by: Kamo River, Gion district
- Halal Wagyu Ramen & Yakiniku GYUMON Kyoto Gion (wagyu ramen)
- A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki Kyoto Panga | Kyoto Halal Restaurant (Premium wagyu)
- Mezopotamia Kebab House (Turkish, Kebabs)
- Yoshiya (Japanese): Prayer room & wudhu area available / Close-by: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
- Kacto (Breakfast) non-halal specific* Scenic outdoor seating with a river view. Menu highlight: Bacon and egg sandwich with cheddar cheese, basil aioli and hash brown potatoes (ask to remove bacon for muslim-friendly option) / Close-by: Kamo river
Osaka
- Osaka Halal Restaurant (Pakistani) Close-by: Osaka Masjid
- Halal Wagyu&Vegan Ramen Gyumon Osaka (Wagyu ramen) Close-by: Dotonbori
- Halal Honolu Grande Shinsaibashi (Ramen) Close-by: Dotonbori
Tokyo
- TOP PICK: Nikoniko mazemen (Japanese) Menu highlights: Katsu chicken curry, Spicy chicken ramen- Mosque/Prayer area across street.
- Antep Kebab Shibuya (Turkish, kebab) Menu highlights: Antep special / Close-by: Harajuku, MEGA Don Quijote
- Halal Wagyu Stall (Casual Wagyu) Menu highlights: Kobe Beef skewer / Small secluded seating area above restaurant. Close-by: Shibuya Scramble Crossing
- Genki Taisho Wagyu – Halal (Wagyu experience) Prayer room available / Close-by: Shinjuku
- Halal Wagyu&Vegan Ramen Shibuya (Wagyu, Ramen) Menu highlights:
- Halal Ramen Honolu Premier Asakusa (Ramen)
- Woodberry Coffee Shibuya (Breakfast) Shibuya non-halal specific* Menu highlights: Açai bowl with Ice cream, Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon / Close-by: Shibuya / Usually a wait time (reservation encouraged)
The ‘Conbini’ 7/11 experience
Stepping into a Japanese 7/11, or conbini, is more than just a convenience store run—it’s a cultural experience. These stores are clean, efficient, and stocked with everything and anything you’d find at a convenience store. The 7/11s in Japan was a go-to spot for early morning grab n go breakfasts or mid-day pick me up lunches.
Muslim-Friendly Options (not containing pork):
- Tuna or Salmon Onigiri
- Egg Salad Sandwiches
- Iced Lattes or Frozen Smoothies (buy a cup of ice and use the machine to mix your own)
- Fresh fruits, snacks, and desserts like mochi or pudding
Also be aware that most Instant ramen noodles contain pork, so it’s best to avoid those unless clearly labeled halal or vegetarian.
Pro Tip: Bring a few of your favorite instant ramen packets and some travel-friendly ramen bowls in your suitcase. Most hotel rooms in Japan come with a hot water kettle, making it easy to whip up a quick meal right in your room. Instant ramen can be a lifesaver—especially if you arrive late at night and everything’s closed.
Notable things to do in Japan
- Ramen Cooking Class in Kyoto
Learn to make authentic halal ramen from scratch in the heart of Kyoto—it’s a fun, hands-on experience that ends with a delicious bowl you crafted yourself. - Sushi Making Class in Tokyo
Master the art of sushi-making with expert chefs in Tokyo and gain a deeper appreciation for the technique, tradition, and precision behind every bite. - Head Spa in Tokyo
Treat yourself to a luxurious Japanese head spa—a deeply relaxing experience that includes scalp massage, cleansing treatments, and pure zen vibes. Many head spa’s are muslim-friendly and will perform your service in a private room- I had a fantastic experience at Tokyo head spa in Shibuya. - Race Car Booking in Tokyo
If you want to fulfil your adrenaline-loaded race car dreams, book a race car excursion through the streets of Tokyo. One tip is to pay attention to what district you will ride the car in- personally, this experience in a high traffic area like Shinjuki or Shibuya would be too overstimulating for me so if you want to drive around in a quieter area, I recommend booking this experience in akihabara which will lead you into the calmer district of Ginza. - Rent a Car and Leave the City
Escape the city chaos: drive out of Kyoto to scenic Amanohashidate or head an hour from Tokyo to a coastal town with beach views and glimpses of Mount Fuji. It’s the best way to experience Japan’s wildly different atmospheres—city buzz one day, Malibu-style seaside the next. - Bike Rentals in Quiet Towns or Kyoto Riversides
Rent a bike and cruise through peaceful countryside towns or along the river in Kyoto—it’s a slow, scenic way to take in Japan’s calm, everyday beauty. - Kimono Rental in Kyoto
For a classic Kyoto experience, rent a kimono and head to the charming alleys of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka—these historic areas near Kiyomizu-dera are picture-perfect backdrops for your photos and a beautiful way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. - Book a Private Onsen
Unwind in a private onsen for the ultimate Japanese relaxation experience—perfect after a long travel day, and no worries if you have tattoos or prefer privacy.
Exploring Japan by Car
Renting a car and leaving the main city to explore nearby quieter towns was one of the highlights of our Japan trip- and we did it in both Tokyo and Kyoto. Leaving the main city and driving out of town really allows you to experience the unreal scenic beauty Japan has to offer. If you’re interested in this experience, I’ve outlined the route we followed and activities we did along the way below.
Day Trip from Kyoto
- Stop 1: Kayabuki no Sato (Miyama Village) Wander through the peaceful mountains and grab some coffee ice cream.
- Stop 2: Amanohashidate – take the chairlift up to the Kasamatsu Park Lookout then rent a bike and go for a leisurely ride across the Island.
- Stop 3: Ine no Funaya (Ine Fishing Village) – Stroll along the coast of Japan or take a boat ride
Day Trip from Tokyo
- Head to Enoshima or Zushi Beach – Grab some onigiri and drinks from 7/11 and enjoy them on the seaside
- Drive to the Mount Fuji Area (Lake Kawaguchiko) – Ride swan boats, grab a coffee and walk around town
- Visit Oishi Park or the Chureito Pagoda for more iconic viewpoints
Tips for Driving in Japan
Get an international driver’s license:
To legally drive in Japan as a tourist, you’ll need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip—it’s a quick process in most countries and a requirement for renting a car in Japan.
Be prepared for tolls – carry cash:
Many highways in Japan have tolls, and while some accept cards, it’s safest to have cash on hand—especially in more rural areas.
Plan ahead for food – halal options may be limited:
If you’re driving into remote areas, halal food can be hard to find, so we stocked up on onigiri and snacks from 7/11 before leaving the city to have something on hand throughout the day.
We rented through Klook:
Booking a rental car through Klook was simple, with English-friendly support and competitive pricing—highly recommended for tourists.
Right-side drive cars – prepare for the adjustment:
Cars in Japan have the steering wheel on the right side and drive on the left, so give yourself time to adjust if you’re used to driving on the opposite side.
Notable purchases to make in Japan
- Nail Clippers: Japanese nail clippers are known for their precision and sharpness and for many people, picking up a pair of these clippers makes for a great souvenir that both memorable and useful—LOFT carries a variety of high-quality clippers if you’re looking for a place to start.
- Ramen Bowl & Chopsticks: Bring home your own ceramic ramen bowl and a set of chopsticks to recreate the icon ramen experience—Check out LOFT if you’re in the main city or explore local shops for handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Japanese Knife: Renowned for craftsmanship and razor-sharp edges, a Japanese kitchen knife is a top-tier culinary tool and a lasting reminder of your trip.
- Matcha: Pick up premium matcha powder or matcha-flavoured treats—especially from Kyoto’s Uji region, known for producing some of Japan’s finest green tea.
- Beauty Items: Head to @cosme for the best of Japanese beauty—whether it’s cult favourite mascaras, innovative sheet masks, or skincare backed by local hype and global acclaim.
Shopping in Japan
- LOFT: A multi-level lifestyle store packed with everything from high-quality stationery and beauty products to home goods and quirky Japanese gadgets—perfect for souvenirs and everyday gems.
- @Cosme (Cosme Store): Japan’s version of Sephora, this beauty mecca is the go-to for award-winning skincare, makeup, and trending Japanese beauty innovations you won’t find elsewhere.
- Lumine: Located in and around major train stations, Lumine is a stylish shopping complex offering a curated mix of fashion, accessories, cosmetics, and cafes, with both Japanese and international brands.
- Onitsuka Tiger: Known for their sleek, retro-inspired sneakers, Onitsuka Tiger offers uniquely Japanese designs—often with limited-edition styles exclusive to Japan.
- Don Quijote (Donki): A wild, maze-like discount store with everything from snacks and souvenirs to electronics, beauty items, and the occasional oddity—all at great prices.
- Tokyu Hands: Part DIY, part home goods, part everything—this creative department store is great for unique Japanese stationery, travel accessories, and hobby items.
- Muji: Minimalist heaven offering high-quality clothing, home goods, and snacks with a clean, timeless aesthetic—perfect for fans of simple, functional design.
- Uniqlo & GU: Affordable, stylish Japanese clothing brands known for quality basics, smart layering pieces, and Japan-exclusive collections.
