An 11-Day Japan Loop: Gaming, Shrines & Street Karts

Not only is Toyosu home to the world’s largest fish market, it also hosts one of the most fascinating interactive art experiences in the city. teamLab Planets is a stunning, immersive digital art museum that is ideal for families and couples alike. One of my favorite rooms features water that sits just below the knee and mirrored walls where digital koi fish swim around you. During the summer months, it is incredibly refreshing to escape the heat and cool off in the water while the whole family looks on in awe at the exhibits.

Traveler’s tips

The 2026 expansion: The museum has recently expanded by 1.5 times! In addition to the water area, there is now an “Athletics Forest” where you can jump and climb through 3D art, and a “Catching and Collecting Extinct Forest” where you use a smartphone app to “capture” and study digital animals.

Dress for the experience: Since you’ll be walking through water, make sure to wear pants that can easily be rolled up above the knee. Also, because many rooms have mirrored floors, it’s best to avoid wearing dresses or skirts, though if you forget, the staff actually offers free rental shorts you can use.

Shibuya Parco: A hub for gamers and fans

For anime and video game lovers, Shibuya Parco is the ultimate destination. The 6th floor is a dedicated hub for fans, featuring iconic spots like the Nintendo TOKYO store, the Pokémon Center Shibuya, and the Capcom and Jump Shop locations.

I vividly remember seeing the massive Luffy statue at the Jump Shop and the life-sized animatronic Mewtwo at the Pokémon Center. Watching it “breathe” in its incubation tube was incredible. It was a surreal moment, realizing I had finally traveled across the world to experience my dream destination. Whether you’re looking for rare merchandise or just want to soak in the atmosphere, this floor is an absolute must-visit!

Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine

There is an endless list of things to see and do in Tokyo, but I highly recommend taking a one-day bus tour. It’s a great way to have an expert guide lead you through must-see spots like the Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine. The sanctuary is surrounded by a lush forest of 100,000 trees and marked by a massive Torii gate. My family and I loved the traditional vibe and the relaxing atmosphere while taking in the scenery. If you’re a fan of traditional Japan, this is a breathtaking place to start your day.

Exploring the Imperial Palace

Next, we ventured to the Imperial Palace, where the Emperor of Japan currently resides. We got to see the stunning stone walls and the iconic Nijubashi Bridge that marks the entrance to the inner grounds. While you won't see a formal “Changing of the Guard” like in some other countries, watching the Imperial Guard in their crisp uniforms against the backdrop of the palace gates is still a great experience for history buffs.

Senso-ji: A rainy day win

If you love vivid colors and grand temples, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is a must. One of my favorite memories happened there: the area was packed with people until a sudden thunderstorm sent everyone scrambling for shelter. I decided to keep walking and ended up getting perfect, unobstructed shots of the temple and the Kaminarimon Gate since the crowds had cleared out. It felt like having a piece of ancient Tokyo all to myself!

Views from the sky: Tokyo Skytree

For those who enjoy a view, the Tokyo Skytree is an essential experience. Standing at 634 meters, it’s the tallest structure in Japan. The observation decks offer phenomenal panoramic views, and on a clear day, you can see Mt. Fuji perfectly. Even if you aren't a fan of heights, the Tokyo Solamachi mall at the base is worth the trip for the Kirby Café and incredible local food.

I highly recommend visiting Tokyo Disneyland to any Disney fan or theme park lover. There is something truly magical about being surrounded by characters like Mickey Mouse. It brings out your inner child no matter how old you are. Whether you’re there for the themed desserts, the unique snacks (like the famous popcorn flavors), the classic rides, or the parades, the park really does have it all.

Beating the heat with Baymax

Since I visited during the summer, I got to experience “Baymax’s Mission: Cool Down.” It’s an energetic summer parade where Baymax floats through the park spraying water into the crowd to the beat of upbeat music. It’s easily one of the best ways to beat the Tokyo heat, and the excitement in the air is contagious!

A classic

I also loved riding “It’s a Small World.” It’s a total must-do for me and feels so nostalgic, especially since it’s been a favorite of mine since my very first visit back in 2009.

If you haven’t been in a while, you’re in for a treat, the Tokyo version is very well-maintained.

If I had to pick just one "must-do" activity in Tokyo, it is hands down driving go-karts right through the middle of city traffic. It is an unbelievable, breathtaking experience to do with a group or as a family.

I highly recommend Street Kart as your go-to company. They were incredibly professional and took great care of us from start to finish. Before hitting the road, they provided a thorough safety briefing and clear driving instructions. Throughout the tour, the guides kept a close eye on everyone, skillfully managing the group and ensuring no one fell behind in the Tokyo traffic.

Pro-tip (2026 update): Street Kart now strictly enforces a closed-toe shoe policy. If you show up in sandals, flip-flops, or heels, you won't be allowed to drive for safety reasons, so make sure to wear sneakers! Also, don't worry about taking photos while driving; the guides usually snap photos of your group at stoplights and will AirDrop or email them to you for free at the end of the tour.

Crucial paperwork for Canadians

One vital detail to keep in mind, especially for those coming from Canada, is that you need your standard driver’s license along with an International Driving Permit (IDP). In Canada, the only valid IDP for Japan is the one issued by the CAA (under the 1949 Geneva Convention). You won't be allowed to ride without both original documents. Digital copies, or other types of permits aren't accepted. For travelers from other countries, definitely double-check your specific permit requirements before booking.

The Tokyo Bay Loop

Our tour lasted two hours, and we chose the Tokyo Bay Loop, which took us across the massive Rainbow Bridge and right past Tokyo Tower. One of my favorite memories was seeing locals and tourists waving at us as we zipped by. We went in the afternoon, but the evening slots are also incredible if you want to see the city lights in full glow. To top it all off, they provide a variety of fun costumes ranging from superheroes to animals, which really adds an extra layer of fun to the drive.

Dinner and views in Odaiba

To finish the day, head over to Aqua City Odaiba for dinner. The mall has a massive variety of food, but I recommend checking out Tokyo Ramen Kokugikan Mai on the 5th floor. It’s a "ramen stadium" featuring six famous shops from all over Japan, each serving a unique regional style.

After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade. You’ll find the Odaiba Statue of Liberty, which is about 1/7th the size of the original but makes for a perfect photo with the illuminated Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline in the background. It’s the perfect, peaceful way to end such a high energy day.

While it’s tempting to stick to the major cities when visiting Japan, there are incredible spots just a short trip away. We took a day trip to explore Kamakura, starting at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the city's most important Shinto shrine. Despite its popularity, the atmosphere felt remarkably laid-back, especially while wandering through the gardens and past the Genpei Ponds.

Getting there

To make the most of your time here, I recommend using a digital Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass on your phone. It covers your round-trip from Tokyo and gives you unlimited rides on the Enoden, a charming retro train that runs right along the coast and through narrow backstreets. Between shrines, make sure to walk through Komachi-dori, a vibrant shopping street near the station filled with traditional snacks and unique boutiques.

Panoramic views at Hasedera

Next, we visited Hasedera Temple. While the temple buildings and the massive wooden Kannon statue are stunning, the most breathtaking part was the panoramic view from the observation deck. Standing there on a sunny day, looking out over the mountains, the bustling town, and the vast, sky-blue water of Sagami Bay, was truly spectacular.

If you are visiting during the peak hydrangea season in June, keep in mind that the temple now uses a timed-entry system for the flower path, so it's a good idea to check their website in advance. Also, don't miss the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu) at Kotoku-in. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Hasedera, and seeing the massive bronze statue against the open sky is a must.

Island adventures on Enoshima

The highlight of the day was definitely Enoshima. If you just want to relax, you can spend the day at the beach like we did. The water is shallow and great for a quick dip. For those looking for more adventure, head across the bridge to the island. You can explore the Iwaya Caves, which house a hidden shrine, or walk through the Samuel Cocking Garden.

If you’re a foodie, Benzaiten Nakamise Street is a must. It’s a steep, winding path lined with local vendors. If you stay until evening, head up the Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse. The sunset views of Mt. Fuji across the water are the perfect way to end the day.

Another incredible day trip we took was to the Nikko World Heritage area. If you want to feel as small as Jack and the Beanstalk, this is the place to go. On the approach to the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, we walked along a path lined with thousands of massive, 400-year-old Japanese cedar trees. The shrine itself is a golden masterpiece, filled with intricate samurai carvings and the famous “Kanaesugi” (wish-granting tree), where people pray toward a hollow in its ancient trunk to make their dreams come true.

Traveler’s tip: To get here, I highly recommend taking the new Spacia X limited express train from Asakusa. It’s a stylish, high-speed way to reach Nikko in about an hour and 50 minutes. Also, try to arrive at the shrine right when it opens at 9 am—it’s one of Japan’s most popular sites, and getting there early lets you experience the “cedar silence” before the crowds arrive.

Hidden gems and lemonade

For food, we stumbled upon a hidden gem called Manten Chicken Grill Nikko. I highly recommend the “Manten Chicken Rice”, a perfect plate of grilled chicken, white rice, and fresh vegetables. To wash it down, you have to try their Lemonade Candy Soda, which is a refreshing lemonade with an orange popsicle dropped right in it. It was absolutely delicious and the perfect way to cool off!

Nature’s symphony: Kegon Falls & Lake Chuzenji

Standing at nearly 100 meters tall, Kegon Falls is ranked as one of the top three waterfalls in Japan and is an absolute must-visit. You can take a dedicated elevator down to the base to feel the mist and hear the thundering roar of the water up close.

Our final stop was Lake Chuzenji, and honestly, it was so breathtaking I can barely put it into words. Sitting 1,269 meters above sea level, the lake offers stunning views and a quiet, charming town. The best part, however, was the temperature. We left the 40°C heat of Tokyo and arrived at the mountain to find it was only 20°C, a much-needed break from the intense summer heat. If you’re looking for crystal-clear water, incredible views, and a laid-back vibe, don’t skip this!

Mt. Fuji

As part of our tour, we visited Mt. Fuji, Japan’s tallest peak, standing at an impressive 3,776 meters. We went during July, and our guide mentioned that seeing the summit in the summer is actually quite rare because of heavy cloud cover. To our surprise, the sky cleared, and we got a perfect view of the peak! Since it was summer, the mountain wasn’t snow-capped, giving it a rugged volcanic look that differs from the classic postcards, but seeing the clouds floating directly across the mountainside was breathtaking.

If you plan to visit the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, you have to try the famous Mt. Fuji Melonpan at the local bakery. It’s a fluffy bread shaped like the mountain, dusted with cocoa powder, and topped with white icing to look like a snowy peak.

2026 travel note

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to hike beyond the 5th Station, keep in mind that a mandatory climbing fee of 4,000 yen is now in place for the Yoshida Trail. The mountain also has a daily cap of 4,000 hikers, so it’s essential to book your entry slot online in advance to ensure you can stand “in the sky” worry-free.

Lake Ashi

To wrap up the day, we took a scenic cruise across Lake Ashi. The views of the surrounding mountains and the deep blue water were incredible. We even saw one of the famous Hakone Pirate Ships passing by! We finished the trip with the Hakone Komagatake Ropeway, a scenic aerial lift that takes you from the lakeshore to the summit of Mt. Komagatake at 1,356 meters.

I’ll be honest, I have a fear of heights, so the 7-minute ascent was a bit of a personal challenge, but the view from the top was surreal. On a clear day, you can see the Hakone Shrine’s “floating” torii gate and even as far as the Pacific Ocean. If you want a breathtaking perspective of the region, this is an awesome way to see it!

Akihabara

Akihabara is truly the “holy land” for anime and video game enthusiasts. We started our journey at Animate, a massive multi-story complex packed with the latest anime merchandise.

From there, we headed to Yodobashi-Akiba, a giant electronics hub featuring an incredible Nintendo section that is a dream for gaming fans. The area is so densely packed with specialized hobby shops and retro gaming dens that you could easily spend days getting lost in the side streets.

Animal cafés and relaxation

If you need a break from the screens and shelves, Akihabara offers unique ways to unwind, such as Cat Café MOFF. We spent a relaxing hour there playing with and petting the residents. If you’re an animal lover, checking out one of the local animal cafés, ranging from cats to owls, is a must-do Tokyo experience.

Must-try eats

For food, I highly recommend Roast Beef Ohno Akihabara. Their famous “Roast Beef Volcano Bowl” is a showstopper: a mountain of tender roast beef stacked high over rice and topped with a perfectly runny egg.

Pro tip: The lines can get quite long during lunch and dinner rushes, but it is absolutely worth the wait for that first bite.

For dessert, Jack in the Donuts is the perfect final stop. They offer vibrant, unique flavors and creative designs, like their famous “Galaxy Donuts”, that you won’t find anywhere else.

A fan’s paradise

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka is a dream destination, especially for anime and video game fans. They host a rotating variety of seasonal events and attractions that cater to major franchises.

During my visit, they featured incredible One Piece merchandise and a dedicated themed restaurant. The Demon Slayer VR ride was a standout, and we couldn’t resist picking up the limited-edition Nezuko and Tanjiro popcorn bucket. With a dedicated store for Demon Slayer gear and the park constantly cycling through different series, there is always something new to see year after year.

Navigating Super Nintendo World

If you love Nintendo, Super Nintendo World is a must-visit. During my trip, the land used a Timed Entry Ticket system. To enter, you either had to purchase an Express Pass that included a timed slot or use the Universal Studios Japan app to snag a free “Area Timed Entry Ticket” as soon as you entered the park. I highly recommend checking the app before your visit to see if these requirements are still in place so you can enjoy the day worry-free.

A dream come true

Walking into Super Nintendo World felt like a lifelong dream realized. From syncing my Power-Up Band to participate in the interactive games, to walking through the iconic green pipe and seeing Princess Peach’s and Bowser’s castles, it was truly a bucket-list moment.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge: My favorite ride, racing on Rainbow Road was surreal!

Yoshi’s Adventure: A fantastic way to get a bird’s-eye view of the entire, vibrant land.

We started the day with brunch at Kuma Kafe, a charming bear-themed spot near the aquarium. The place is filled with bear photos and memorabilia. We even got to eat at a table with a massive stuffed bear! I ordered the pancakes, which were (naturally) bear-shaped. It’s a great local business, so if you’re in the area, definitely stop by to show them some love.

Deep sea discovery at Kaiyukan

Next, we spent the afternoon at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, which features one of the world’s largest aquarium tanks. The variety of animals was incredible, but the absolute highlight was the whale shark. Seeing a 5 to 6 meter giant up close was a total jaw-dropping moment. Because the facility is so massive, you could easily spend a few hours getting lost in the exhibits.

Neon nights in Dotonbori

To wrap up the day, we headed over to Dotonbori to see the iconic Glico Running Man. The whole area is a neon dream. I loved the vibe along the canal, it’s bustling, high-energy, and honestly felt a bit like a Japanese version of Times Square.

Kyoto icons

We started the day early at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. On the day we visited, it hit 48°C with the humidex, so we really appreciated the natural shade of the forest. The views of the towering bamboo are incredible, and there are several great photo spots along the way. This is a must for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a peaceful morning walk before the crowds arrive.

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

Next, we took on the steep hike up to the Monkey Park.

Pro tip: The path is quite a climb, so you’ll want to be in decent shape to tackle it. Even then, don’t be afraid to take plenty of breaks on the way up—it’s a workout! Once you reach the top, it’s all worth it.

You get stunning panoramic views of Kyoto and the chance to see the monkeys up close in their own habitat. If you’re an animal lover who doesn’t mind a bit of a sweat for a great view, this is a Kyoto essential.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

To finish off the day, we hopped on the train and headed to the other side of the city to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. Walking through the endless rows of orange torii gates is a surreal experience—it’s a truly special place that feels like nowhere else. There is a lot of walking involved if you want to explore the higher trails, but it’s an absolute must-do when you’re in Kyoto.