Japan Travel Lessons: What I'd Do Differently

A first trip to Japan offered a mix of wonder and practical lessons. While the country proved to be fun and easy to navigate, several missteps impacted the overall experience.

From weather choices to luggage logistics, the 10-day journey revealed common travel errors. These insights provide valuable guidance for future visitors planning their own adventures.

The biggest regret from the trip was the decision to travel in September. While this month avoids peak tourist crowds, the weather conditions were far from ideal.

Most days saw temperatures hovering around 93 degrees Fahrenheit. Combined with 98% humidity and a complete lack of breeze, the heat was described as oppressive and miserable.

This extreme weather significantly detracted from enjoying major sites. The astonishing Osaka Castle and Tokyo's Sensō-ji Buddhist Temple were harder to appreciate in the sweltering conditions.

The traveler noted that October and November tend to offer cooler temperatures. Booking a trip just a month or two later would have made a substantial difference in comfort.

By far, the worst mistake we made on our Japan trip was traveling in the wrong month: September.

Traveling with large suitcases proved to be a significant challenge in Japan's densely populated cities. There is little space for non-essentials, especially bulky luggage.

Each traveler brought a large suitcase, which was inconvenient for several reasons. Train cars have limited bag space, and doors open and close very quickly.

If luggage isn't boarded promptly, both people and bags can be left on the platform. Navigating busy streets with heavy suitcases was not ideal.

The best decision made was booking accommodation with laundry services. With the heat causing them to sweat through at least two outfits daily, easy access to laundry was a lifesaver.

For future trips, using Japan's luggage delivery services would be a priority. These services deliver bags to and from the airport and between hotels for a nominal fee.

While Japan's convenience store culture is famous, over-reliance on it became a missed opportunity. With over 50,000 locations, spots like 7-Eleven offer impressive variety and convenience.

Grab-and-go lunches like rice balls and sandwiches were frequent choices between shrine visits and arcade explorations. However, looking back, the traveler wishes they had prioritized sit-down meals instead.

There are many unique and incredible restaurants to discover. From old-school noodle houses that feel like a different era to izakayas that offer a glimpse into social pub culture, the dining scene is rich.

On the next visit, the plan is to skip convenience stores more often. The goal is to sit down and experience the authentic culinary atmosphere Japan has to offer.

Japanese cities like Tokyo felt overwhelming in a way that hasn't been experienced elsewhere. The sheer number of people, restaurants, skyscrapers, and activities was mind-boggling.

Choice overload struck at every corner. This lack of preparation led to missing out on several key experiences.

The traveler only learned about Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—on their last evening. Similarly, watching a Sumo tournament in Osaka was impossible due to the short stay.

For future visits, having a list of must-visit stops is essential. A more detailed itinerary would help navigate the abundance of options and ensure key sites are seen.

The trip to Japan was ultimately fun and educational. Despite the mistakes, the country was found to be easy to navigate using translation apps and basic research.

The experience highlighted the value of preparation. Understanding local weather patterns, luggage logistics, and cultural offerings can transform a good trip into a great one.

These lessons provide a roadmap for future travelers. By avoiding these common pitfalls, the next journey to Japan can be even more rewarding and comfortable.